With a grumpy little huff, she shoved the dress into the closet and slammed the door shut. Muttering something completely incoherent under her breath—most likely a long list of complaints—she turned to look for the kids.
"Alright, my babies," she said, clapping her hands once. "It's bath time. Let's get you two cleaned up."
"Yay!" Ivy squealed, bouncing on her feet. "I love bathing! Soapy soap! Make us shiny-shine like a star!"
Lucien scrunched up his nose dramatically.
"Ugh. What's so fun about showering? It's just… showering." He crossed his arms. "I'd rather swim in the ocean. No Ivy. No chaos."
"What did you say?" Ivy gasped, spinning toward him with mock offense. "Lucy Wooshie!" she teased, poking his cheek. "You're such a cutie-patootie!"
"Don't call me that!" Lucien snapped. "I'm not cute. I'm beautiful," he declared proudly, lifting his chin.
Ivy frowned thoughtfully. "Girls are beautiful. Boys are handsome."
"No, men can be beautiful too!" Lucien argued instantly.
